LIAT Airlines Reaches the Virgin Islands: A New Era in Air Travel Connectivity
Historic First Flight
On Sunday, December 8, 2020, IAT Airlines (2020) Limited made its inaugural flight to the Virgin Islands through the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, marking a significant step towards improving air travel connectivity in the region.
Promising a Reliable and Affordable Service
The airline has committed to offering reliable and affordable travel across the Caribbean, making it easier for both business and leisure travelers to get from A to B.
Government Support and Praise
Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley, Premier of the Virgin Islands, expressed his excitement about the new service, stating, "Today, we celebrate not just the arrival of LIAT Airlines but also the strengthening of our connections within the Caribbean. This service is vital for fostering economic growth and enhancing the cultural exchange among our islands."
Kye M. Rymer, Minister for Communications and Works, highlighted the importance of this achievement, "The return of LIAT to our skies is a testament to our resilience and determination to improve connectivity in our region. This new route will not only benefit tourists but also our local businesses and communities."
LIAT’s Plans and Objectives
Hafsah Abdulsalam, CEO of LIAT (2020) Limited, shared her plans for the airline, "We are excited to reconnect the British Virgin Islands with the rest of the Caribbean. Our focus is on providing reliable services that meet the needs of travelers while promoting regional tourism."
Airport Authority Praise and Support
Kurt Menal, Managing Director of the BVI Airports Authority, praised the teamwork that made this flight possible, "The partnership between LIAT and our local authorities has been instrumental in making this inaugural flight a reality. We look forward to welcoming more visitors and enhancing our airport’s operations."
Theodore Burke, Chairman of the BVI Airports Authority Board, also expressed his support, "This new service represents a significant step forward in improving air travel options for our residents and visitors alike. It is a crucial component in our strategy to boost tourism and economic activity in the BVI."
Fares and Services
LIAT will offer regular flights from Beef Island with a special one-way fare starting at $99 for a limited time. The airline aims to provide smooth travel connections throughout the Caribbean, making it easier for both business and leisure travelers to get from A to B.
About LIAT 2020 Limited
LIAT 2020 Limited, also known as LIAT20 or LIAT, is an airline based in Antigua and Barbuda. It follows LIAT (1974) and began operations on August 6, 2024. LIAT20 is a partnership between the Government of Antigua and Barbuda (30%) and Air Peace (70%). Its fleet has been carried over from LIAT (1974).
Baggage Allowance
According to its website, LIAT offers generous baggage allowances, allowing passengers to bring a 50 lbs suitcase, a carry-on bag, and a personal item, however, infants don’t get their own baggage allowance.
Conclusion
The arrival of LIAT Airlines in the Virgin Islands marks a significant milestone in improving air travel connectivity in the region. With its commitment to providing reliable and affordable services, LIAT aims to make it easier for travelers to get from A to B, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange among the islands.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When did LIAT Airlines make its first flight to the Virgin Islands?
- December 8, 2020
- What is LIAT’s focus?
- Providing reliable services that meet the needs of travelers while promoting regional tourism
- What is LIAT’s baggage allowance?
- 50 lbs suitcase, 1 carry-on bag, and 1 personal item (infants don’t get their own baggage allowance)
- What is the special one-way fare offered by LIAT?
- $99 for a limited time
- When did LIAT 2020 Limited begin operations?
- August 6, 2024
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